The Health Benefits of Guava

The health benefits of guava from our series on the Health Benefits of Caribbean Food

Guava is a sweet and juicy tropical fruit grown abundantly throughout the Caribbean. It’s typically enjoyed on its own, juiced, and in desserts, and is sold fresh, frozen, canned, and in the form of guava paste or jam. This mouthwatering fruit has skin ranging in color from yellow to green with sweet pink flesh and a soft center full of easy-to-scoop-out seeds. With vitamins, antioxidants, fiber, and more, guava is an excellent food to include in your diet. Read on to learn about the health benefits of guava.

1. Guava helps with weight loss

Filling guava satisfies sugar cravings and has no cholesterol, a high ratio of fiber to sugar, and even a little protein (1.5 grams per serving). It’s the perfect energy-boosting snack for those trying to lose weight.

2. It’s a good choice for diabetics

The high ratio of fiber to sugar means that guava is a great choice for diabetics. The fiber slows down sugar absorption, reducing the chance of an insulin spike.

3. It improves vision

Guavas have a high vitamin A content, which is important for healthy eyes and vision. Vitamin A helps to ward off cataracts, macular degeneration, and age related vision changes.

4. It helps prevent cancer

Antioxidants in guava help prevent the development of cancer. Specifically, gauva is a good source of the antioxidant lycopene which is shown to greatly decrease prostate tumors, and also may prevent breast cancer. Guava leaf oil is said to be able to greatly diminish malignant growth even better than present day prescriptions.

5. It boosts the immune system and wards off scurvy

Guava has 5 times as much vitamin C per serving as oranges! Vitamin C is important for the immune system and helps the body fight off a wide range of bacterial and viral diseases. Scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency, can be prevented or easily cured with guava.

6. It’s good for digestive health

Naturally occurring astringents in guava have antibacterial and disinfectant properties. They help keep digestive bacteria in check to prevent and treat gastroenteritis and other effects of bacterial imbalance. In addition, vitamin C, carotenoids, and potassium in guava all help to strengthen and improve the function of the intestines.

7. It helps the thyroid

Guava is a good source of copper which serves a critical function in thyroid metabolism. Copper aids in the control of the production and absorption of hormones.

8. It improves cognitive function

Guava contains energy-boosting and cognitive enhancing b-vitamins, especially vitamins B6 and B3. These vitamins help with a broad range of systems in the body, especially with the functioning of the brain and nervous systems. The results are improved focus and memory retention.

9. It lowers bad cholesterol

Several studies have shown that vitamin B3, or niacin, increases good HDL cholesterol, lowers triglycerides, and lowers bad LDL cholesterol as well as or better than some prescription drugs. Niacin is often prescribed by doctors in combination with statins for the treatment of high cholesterol. Guava provides some of this daily vitamin B3 requirement.

10. It supports healthy, glowing skin

The antioxidants, vitamins A, B, C, and potassium in guava all contribute to good skin health. These nutrients support a clear complexion and can help prevent wrinkles and premature aging. Additionally, the high water content in guava helps keep skin hydrated and plump.

Disclaimer: We are not doctors or health professionals. We just like to research helpful information. 🙂 Please consult with your physician before making any changes to your health or diet regimen.

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"Taste the Islands" is a Caribbean culinary series airing nationally in the US, and in select international regions. The accompanying website is a repository of recipes from around the Caribbean. The program is produced, and the website is administered, by Blondie Ras Productions, Inc.